In 1991 an insatiable desire to understand genetics motivated Steven Jones, then a Simon Fraser University student and currently an SFU professor of molecular biology and biochemistry, to pursue a master of science degree.

Now, 23 years later, the internationally recognized head of bioinformatics at the B.C. Cancer Agency's Genome Sciences Centre (BCGSC) and SFU alumnus has become a Canadian Academy of Health Sciences fellow.

Having pioneered the development of faster, more accurate, next-generation computational approaches to analyze and interpret genetic information, Jones has helped map several high-profile genomes, including the SARS coronavirus and the human genome. His approach to bioinformatics is also helping to fight human cancer and environmental challenges such as the mountain pine beetle epidemic.

Generally speaking, his research uncovers how our genetic material influences our health either by propagating inherited disorders or by accruing genetic mutations in our cells during our lifetime — such as cancer.

“My research is now firmly entrenched in cancer genomics to understand the mutational landscape of cancer, says Jones. “I would like to develop methods that allow us to tailor therapeutic approaches to the specific genetic mutations that we observe in an individual's tumour. Particularly exciting would be to discover specific mutations that can be exploited, somewhat like an Achilles Heel, by making a tumour profoundly sensitive to a certain drug.”

“It feels like this is the perfect homecoming,” shares professor Kelley Lee, associate dean, research, SFU Faculty of Health Sciences. “Having spent most of my career abroad, it is a privilege to be welcomed back by joining this remarkable network of highly accomplished Canadian health researchers.”

Prior to joining SFU, the renowned global health scholar spent more than 20 years at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, where she led the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre on Global Change and Health and chaired the WHO Resource Group on Globalization, Trade and Health.

Lee continues to be highly regarded for her work on the impacts of globalization on population health.

“Globalization has blurred boundaries and we need to change how we think about health determinants and outcomes,” says the researcher, who has been named one of Fifty Key Thinkers on Globalization.

“I want to continue documenting how health is a global issue, and study how collection action can be strengthened. The Ebola outbreak has shown that some infectious diseases can become transboundary risks and we need global health institutions that are well equipped to respond. My research not only identifies institutional shortcomings, but also puts forth ideas for making institutions better prepared to meet global health risks.”

Backgrounder:

Steven Jones:

The string of gene-related discoveries that Steven Jones has made connected to numerous cancers is beginning to resemble the length of the human DNA code. In 2010, along with Marco Marra, BCGSC director and an SFU professor and alumnus, Jones co-led the first sequencing of a breast cancer genome, published in Nature. The two were also the first to identify a mutation in a specific gene linked to B-cell lymphomas, published in Nature Genetics.

The same year, the two cracked the genetic code of a rare tongue tumour that had metastasized. Their research team developed a personalized drug regime that stabilized the aggressive cancer.

Kelley Lee:

Kelley Lee's many notable achievements include co-leading a major international initiative to secure public access to a unique collection of internal tobacco industry documents. Her research on tobacco industry activities and strategies amid a changing global economy has played an important role in strengthening tobacco control measures at the national, regional and international levels.

About SFU

As Canada's engaged university, SFU is defined by its dynamic integration of innovative education, cutting-edge research and far-reaching community engagement. SFU was founded almost 50 years ago with a mission to be a different kind of university—to bring an interdisciplinary approach to learning, embrace bold initiatives, and engage with communities near and far. Today, SFU is a leader amongst Canada's comprehensive research universities and is ranked one of the top universities in the world under 50 years of age. With campuses in British Columbia's three largest cities—Vancouver, Surrey and Burnaby—SFU has eight faculties, delivers almost 150 programs to over 30,000 students, and boasts more than 130,000 alumni in 130 countries around the world.

Ranked by respected national surveys as one of Canada’s top three comprehensive universities for almost 20 years, Simon Fraser University is named after a famous explorer and known for its pioneering spirit.